Standard English may be the norm, but that doesn’t mean it has to be boring! We’ve scoured the internet to bring you the most popular and trendy slang words and phrases that are taking the English language by storm. From the streets to social media, this listicle is your ultimate guide to staying hip and in the know. So, get ready to upgrade your vocabulary and impress your friends with this linguistic adventure!
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1. Norm
This term refers to something that is considered typical or standard. It is often used to describe behaviors, attitudes, or expectations that are widely accepted by society.
- For example, “Wearing a suit and tie to a job interview is the norm.”
- In a discussion about social norms, someone might say, “Breaking the norm can be a form of rebellion.”
- A person might comment, “It’s important to challenge the norm and think outside the box.”
2. Regular
This word is used to describe something that is common or standard. It can refer to a person, an object, or a situation that is not exceptional or extraordinary.
- For instance, “I’m just a regular guy, nothing special.”
- In a conversation about coffee, someone might say, “I’ll have a regular black coffee, please.”
- A person might comment, “I prefer regular exercise to stay healthy.”
3. Average
This term refers to something that is considered typical or within the normal range. It is often used to describe a value or measurement that represents the middle or median of a set of data.
- For example, “The average height for men in the United States is around 5’9”.
- In a discussion about grades, someone might say, “I got an average score on the test.”
- A person might comment, “She’s an average singer, nothing exceptional.”
4. Run-of-the-mill
This phrase is used to describe something that is average or common. It implies that the thing being referred to is not special or unique.
- For instance, “I’m tired of eating run-of-the-mill fast food.”
- In a conversation about movies, someone might say, “It was just a run-of-the-mill romantic comedy.”
- A person might comment, “I’m looking for something different, not the run-of-the-mill tourist attractions.”
5. Typical
This word is used to describe something that is representative of a particular group or category. It implies that the thing being referred to is what is expected or considered normal for that group.
- For example, “It’s typical for teenagers to rebel against authority.”
- In a discussion about weather, someone might say, “Today’s weather is typical for this time of year.”
- A person might comment, “It’s typical for toddlers to go through a phase of picky eating.”
6. Commonplace
This word is used to describe something that is not unique or special, but rather very common or average.
- For example, “His taste in music is very commonplace, he only listens to what’s popular.”
- In a discussion about fashion, someone might say, “That outfit is so commonplace, I’ve seen it on everyone.”
- A person describing their daily routine might say, “I do the same commonplace things every day.”
7. Everyday
This term refers to things or activities that are part of your daily routine or are very common in your life.
- For instance, “I eat cereal for breakfast every day, it’s my everyday routine.”
- A person might say, “Driving to work is an everyday occurrence for me.”
- In a discussion about hobbies, someone might mention, “I enjoy painting as an everyday activity.”
8. Garden-variety
This phrase is used to describe something that is very common or typical, often with a slightly negative connotation.
- For example, “That’s just a garden-variety cold, nothing to worry about.”
- In a discussion about cars, someone might say, “I drive a garden-variety sedan, nothing fancy.”
- A person might describe their job as “garden-variety” if it’s a typical office job.
9. Vanilla
This term is used to describe something that is very plain, ordinary, or lacking in excitement or variety.
- For instance, “His taste in music is so vanilla, he only listens to mainstream pop.”
- In a discussion about food, someone might say, “I prefer something more flavorful, that dish is too vanilla for me.”
- A person might describe their style as “vanilla” if it’s very basic and not unique.
10. Plain Jane
This phrase is used to describe someone or something that is very plain, ordinary, or lacking in excitement or attractiveness.
- For example, “She’s a plain Jane, she never wears any interesting clothes.”
- In a discussion about cars, someone might say, “That car is a plain Jane, nothing special about it.”
- A person might describe their hometown as “plain Jane” if it’s a typical suburban area.
11. Ho-hum
This term is used to describe something that is dull, uninteresting, or lacking excitement.
- For example, “The movie was so ho-hum, I fell asleep halfway through.”
- A person might describe their day as, “Just another ho-hum day at the office.”
- When asked about a recent event, someone might respond, “It was pretty ho-hum, nothing special.”
12. Mundane
This word is used to describe something that is dull, ordinary, or lacking excitement.
- For instance, “I’m tired of doing mundane tasks like laundry and dishes.”
- A person might say, “My job is so mundane, it’s the same thing every day.”
- When describing a routine, someone might say, “I have a mundane morning routine: wake up, shower, eat breakfast.”
13. Status quo
This term refers to the current or existing state or condition of things.
- For example, “The company wants to maintain the status quo and avoid making any major changes.”
- A person might say, “I’m not happy with the status quo, we need to shake things up.”
- When discussing a political situation, someone might say, “The status quo is no longer acceptable, we need to push for change.”
14. Middle-of-the-road
This phrase is used to describe something that is neither extreme nor outstanding, but rather average or moderate.
- For instance, “The restaurant’s food is good, but it’s pretty middle-of-the-road.”
- A person might say, “I prefer a middle-of-the-road approach when it comes to politics.”
- When discussing a movie, someone might say, “It was a middle-of-the-road film, not great but not terrible either.”
15. Bread and butter
This term is used to describe something that is essential or the main source of income or sustenance.
- For example, “Writing is my bread and butter, it’s how I make a living.”
- A person might say, “Staple foods like rice and bread are the bread and butter of many diets.”
- When talking about a job, someone might say, “Customer service is the bread and butter of this company.”
16. Standard-issue
This term refers to something that is provided or issued as the standard or norm. It is often used to describe items or equipment that are given to individuals as part of their standard equipment or uniform.
- For example, in the military, a soldier might be given a standard-issue rifle.
- In a discussion about office supplies, someone might mention, “Every employee is provided with a standard-issue laptop.”
- A person talking about clothing might say, “The company provides standard-issue uniforms for all employees.”
17. Average Joe
This term is used to refer to an average or ordinary person, typically a man. It is often used to emphasize that the person in question is not exceptional or extraordinary.
- For instance, in a conversation about dating, someone might say, “I’m just looking for an average Joe, nothing too fancy.”
- In a discussion about job qualifications, a hiring manager might say, “We’re looking for someone who can relate to the average Joe.”
- A person describing their social circle might say, “I prefer hanging out with average Joes, they’re down-to-earth.”
18. Basic
This term is used to describe something or someone who is unoriginal, generic, or conforming to mainstream trends or expectations. It is often used to criticize someone for lacking individuality or uniqueness.
- For example, in a conversation about fashion, someone might say, “She always dresses so basic, following all the latest trends.”
- In a discussion about music, a person might comment, “Their music is so basic, it all sounds the same.”
- A person describing their taste in food might say, “I’m not into basic dishes, I prefer more adventurous flavors.”
19. Regular Joe
This term is used to refer to an ordinary or average person, typically a man. It is often used to emphasize that the person in question is relatable and down-to-earth.
- For instance, in a conversation about celebrity sightings, someone might say, “I ran into a regular Joe at the grocery store yesterday.”
- In a discussion about politics, a person might comment, “Politicians should listen to the concerns of regular Joes instead of just catering to the wealthy.”
- A person describing their ideal partner might say, “I want someone who’s just a regular Joe, not caught up in materialistic pursuits.”
20. Typical Joe
This term is used to refer to a person who is seen as a typical or representative example of a certain group or category. It is often used to make generalizations or assumptions about the behavior or characteristics of an average person.
- For example, in a conversation about customer preferences, someone might say, “The typical Joe prefers convenience over price.”
- In a discussion about consumer behavior, a marketing analyst might comment, “Our target audience is the typical Joe, who values quality and affordability.”
- A person describing a stereotype might say, “According to this stereotype, the typical Joe loves watching sports and drinking beer.”
21. Standard fare
This phrase refers to something that is common or expected. It is often used to describe something that is unremarkable or ordinary.
- For example, “For lunch, we had the standard fare of sandwiches and chips.”
- In a review of a movie, a critic might say, “The plot is predictable and offers nothing more than standard fare.”
- A person describing a party might say, “The decorations and music were just standard fare, nothing special.”
22. Normie
This term is used to describe someone who follows mainstream trends and has conventional interests. It is often used in online communities to refer to someone who is not part of a specific subculture or niche.
- For instance, “He’s such a normie, he only listens to the top 40 hits.”
- In a discussion about fashion, someone might say, “I prefer unique styles, not what the normies are wearing.”
- A person describing their friends might say, “I have a mix of friends, some are into niche hobbies and others are normies.”
23. Garden variety
This phrase is used to describe something that is typical or unremarkable. It is often used to emphasize that something is not special or unique.
- For example, “He’s just a garden variety politician, nothing special.”
- In a discussion about cars, someone might say, “I drive a garden variety sedan, nothing fancy.”
- A person describing a meal might say, “I’m not in the mood for anything fancy, just some garden variety pasta.”
24. Mainstream
This term refers to something that is widely accepted or popular among the general public. It is often used to describe things that are considered to be part of the dominant culture or mainstream society.
- For instance, “That movie was so mainstream, everyone was talking about it.”
- In a discussion about music, someone might say, “I prefer indie bands over mainstream artists.”
- A person describing their taste in clothing might say, “I like to mix mainstream brands with unique pieces.”
25. Conventional
This word is used to describe something that is traditional or conforms to established practices or societal norms. It is often used to contrast with alternative or unconventional ideas or behaviors.
- For example, “He has a very conventional approach to parenting.”
- In a discussion about relationships, someone might say, “I prefer unconventional partnerships over conventional marriages.”
- A person describing their style might say, “I like to mix conventional pieces with more edgy or alternative clothing.”
26. Traditional
This term refers to something that is based on long-established customs or practices. It often implies a sense of familiarity and adherence to established norms.
- For example, “We had a traditional Thanksgiving dinner with turkey and all the fixings.”
- In a discussion about wedding ceremonies, someone might say, “I want a traditional church wedding.”
- A person might describe a classic fairy tale as “a traditional story with a happy ending.”
27. Cookie-cutter
This slang term is used to describe something that is mass-produced or lacking originality. It implies that something is standardized and lacks unique or individual characteristics.
- For instance, “All the houses in this neighborhood look the same. They’re so cookie-cutter.”
- In a conversation about fashion, someone might say, “I prefer unique pieces. I don’t like wearing cookie-cutter clothes.”
- A person might criticize a movie for having “a cookie-cutter plot with predictable twists.”
28. Stock
This term refers to something that is kept in supply or readily available. It can also mean something that is typical or standard.
- For example, “We always keep stock of basic household items like toilet paper and cleaning supplies.”
- In a discussion about photography, someone might say, “The stock lens that comes with the camera is good for everyday use.”
- A person might describe a company’s products as “stock items that are widely available.”
29. Ordinary
This term refers to something that is not special or extraordinary. It implies that something is average, typical, or unremarkable.
- For instance, “I had an ordinary day at work, nothing exciting happened.”
- In a conversation about food, someone might say, “I’ll just have the ordinary burger, nothing fancy.”
- A person might describe a movie as “an ordinary romantic comedy with a predictable plot.”
30. Average Jane
This term is used to refer to an ordinary or average woman. It is often used to represent the average person in a given context.
- For example, “The Average Jane can relate to the struggles depicted in this book.”
- In a discussion about fashion, someone might say, “This brand focuses on creating clothes for the Average Jane, not just high-end fashion.”
- A person might describe a character in a TV show as “an Average Jane who faces everyday challenges.”
31. Standardized
Refers to something that has been made uniform or standardized, meaning it follows a set of established rules or guidelines. It can be used to describe anything from products to tests or procedures.
- For example, a teacher might say, “Please make sure your essays are written in standardized format.”
- In a discussion about quality control, someone might mention, “The company has implemented standardized procedures to ensure consistency.”
- A person might comment on a product, saying, “I appreciate that this brand offers standardized sizing options.”
32. Typicality
Describes the state of being typical or conforming to a standard or norm. It refers to something that is characteristic or representative of a particular group or category.
- For instance, in a conversation about fashion, someone might say, “That outfit is the epitome of typicality for this season.”
- In a discussion about behavior, someone might comment, “His actions are a clear example of typicality for his age group.”
- A person might describe a movie, saying, “The plot follows the typicality of a romantic comedy.”
33. Standard-bearer
This term is used metaphorically to describe someone who is a leader or champion of a particular cause or ideology. It refers to a person who sets the standard or serves as an example for others to follow.
- For example, in a political rally, someone might say, “She is the standard-bearer for progressive policies.”
- In a discussion about a sports team, one might mention, “He is the standard-bearer for the team’s work ethic.”
- A person might comment on a mentor, saying, “She has been a standard-bearer for excellence in my career.”
34. Common
Refers to something that is widespread, prevalent, or frequently encountered. It describes things that are not unique or extraordinary but rather typical or average.
- For instance, in a conversation about food preferences, someone might say, “Pizza is a common choice for dinner.”
- In a discussion about hobbies, one might mention, “Reading is a common pastime for many people.”
- A person might comment on a hairstyle, saying, “The bob haircut is quite common these days.”
35. Usual
Refers to something that is expected or in line with what is normally seen or experienced. It describes things that are not out of the ordinary or unusual.
- For example, in a conversation about daily routines, someone might say, “I woke up at my usual time.”
- In a discussion about weather, one might mention, “Today’s temperature is much cooler than usual.”
- A person might comment on a friend’s behavior, saying, “She’s acting her usual self today.”
36. Routine
This term refers to the regular, monotonous activities or tasks that make up a person’s daily life. It implies a lack of excitement or variation.
- For example, “I wake up, go to work, come home, and repeat. It’s just the same old routine.”
- Someone might complain, “I need to break free from this boring routine and try something new.”
- Another person might say, “I thrive on routine. It gives me a sense of stability and comfort in my life.”
37. Conformist
This term is used to describe someone who blindly follows societal norms and conventions without questioning or challenging them. It implies a lack of individuality or independent thinking.
- For instance, “She’s such a conformist. She always dresses and acts like everyone else.”
- Someone might criticize a group by saying, “They’re all just sheep, mindlessly following the latest trends.”
- Another person might defend their conformity by saying, “I’m not a sheep. I just prefer to fit in and go with the flow.”
38. Regularity
This term refers to the quality of being regular or occurring at fixed intervals. It implies a predictable or steady pattern.
- For example, “The train arrives with regularity every 15 minutes.”
- A person might appreciate regularity by saying, “I like having a regular routine. It helps me stay organized and on track.”
- Another person might desire more regularity in their life and say, “I wish my sleep schedule had more consistency. It’s always changing.”
39. Stereotypical
This term is used to describe something that conforms to a widely held but oversimplified and generalized idea or image. It implies a lack of originality or uniqueness.
- For instance, “He’s the stereotypical jock, always wearing a letterman jacket and talking about sports.”
- Someone might criticize a movie by saying, “It’s so cliché. The plot is predictable and the characters are stereotypical.”
- Another person might defend a stereotype by saying, “Sometimes stereotypes exist for a reason. They can be based on common patterns or behaviors.”
40. Average person
This term refers to an ordinary or typical individual who is not exceptional or outstanding in any way. It implies a lack of special qualities or abilities.
- For example, “He’s just an average person, living a normal life.”
- A person might empathize with the struggles of the average person by saying, “I know what it’s like to work a regular job and struggle to make ends meet.”
- Another person might aspire to be more than just an average person and say, “I want to achieve something great and stand out from the crowd.”
41. Typical run-of-the-mill
This phrase is used to describe something that is common, ordinary, or unremarkable. It implies that the thing being described is not exceptional or unique.
- For example, “That movie was just your typical run-of-the-mill romantic comedy.”
- In a discussion about cars, someone might say, “I prefer something more exciting. That sedan is too run-of-the-mill for me.”
- A person describing a restaurant might say, “The food was okay, but it was just your typical run-of-the-mill fast food.”
42. Plain-Jane
This term is used to describe something or someone that is plain, simple, or unremarkable in appearance or character. It often implies a lack of excitement or uniqueness.
- For instance, “She prefers plain-Jane outfits without any flashy accessories.”
- A person might describe their taste in music as “pretty plain-Jane. I like simple melodies and lyrics.”
- In a discussion about cars, someone might say, “I don’t need anything fancy. Just a plain-Jane sedan will do.”
43. Dime a dozen
This phrase is used to describe something that is extremely common or easy to find. It suggests that the thing being described is not valuable or unique because it is so readily available.
- For example, “Those generic t-shirts are a dime a dozen. You can find them anywhere.”
- In a conversation about job applicants, someone might say, “Entry-level candidates are a dime a dozen. We need someone with more experience.”
- A person might criticize a popular trend by saying, “Those trendy gadgets are a dime a dozen. They’ll be outdated in no time.”
44. Middle of the road
This phrase is used to describe something that is neither extreme nor exceptional. It suggests that the thing being described is average, ordinary, or moderate in quality or characteristics.
- For instance, “The restaurant’s food is okay, but it’s pretty middle of the road.”
- In a discussion about political views, someone might say, “I consider myself middle of the road. I don’t lean strongly towards either party.”
- A person might describe their fashion sense as “pretty middle of the road. I don’t like anything too bold or too plain.”
45. Plain
This word is used to describe something that is basic, unadorned, or lacking in distinctive features or characteristics. It suggests a lack of complexity or excitement.
- For example, “The dress is plain, but it can be dressed up with accessories.”
- In a conversation about food, someone might say, “The dish is pretty plain. It could use some more seasoning.”
- A person might describe their writing style as “pretty plain. I prefer straightforward and clear language.”
46. Average run-of-the-mill
This phrase is used to describe something that is typical or ordinary, lacking any special qualities or characteristics.
- For example, “The movie was just average run-of-the-mill, nothing special.”
- In a discussion about music, someone might say, “The song is catchy, but it’s pretty average run-of-the-mill pop.”
- A person might describe a restaurant by saying, “The food was decent, but it was just average run-of-the-mill.”